What is Herpes in Throat?
Herpes in the throat, also known as herpes esophagitis is when herpes simplex virus invades the esophagus.
Herpes esophagitis is a viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus.
There are two types of herpes virus HSV-1 and HSV-2:
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HSV-1 is more commonly associated with herpes in the throat. This virus is the same one that causes cold sores and it is generally transmitted by mouth-to-mouth contact, but can also be passed through oral sex. It is also known as oral herpes.
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HSV-2 is the primary cause of genital herpes, but can also cause oral herpes. It is typically passed through vaginal, anal, and oral sex.
Who is at Risk for Herpes in Throat?
The herpes simplex virus affects two thirds of the global population, although herpes esophagitis isn’t very common in healthy people.
People who have weakened immune systems are more at risk to contracting herpes of the throat, they include people who have or have had:
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HIV or AIDS
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Leukemia or other cancers
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An organ transplant
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Diabetes
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Any illness that compromises your immune system
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Any autoimmune disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus
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People who abuse alcohol
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People who take long-term antibiotics
Read: How to Get Tested for Herpes and Why it Matters
Symptoms of Herpes in Throat
The primary symptoms of herpes in the throat are:
Other secondary symptoms are:
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Joint pain
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Chills
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Fever
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Not feeling well
Can You Get Oral Herpes in Your Throat and How Long Does it Last?
Yes, oral herpes can affect the throat — this condition is called herpes esophagitis, and it's usually caused by the HSV-1 virus, the same virus responsible for cold sores. Although it’s rare in people with healthy immune systems, it can cause significant discomfort when it does occur.
Symptoms typically last 1 to 2 weeks but can extend up to 4 weeks depending on the severity of the infection and your immune response. Prompt treatment with antiviral medications like acyclovir or valacyclovir can shorten the duration and reduce symptom severity.
If you’re experiencing sore throat with open sores, trouble swallowing, or fever, especially after oral contact with someone who may carry the virus, it’s important to speak with a doctor to confirm the cause and begin treatment.
Prevention for Herpes in Throat
Herpes esophagitis is very rare and can be avoided by practicing safe sex. Ways to ensure you are not at risk of spreading or contracting the herpes virus are:
The herpes virus is most contagious during an outbreak, but can be transmitted when no obvious symptoms are present.
Treatment for Herpes
There is no cure for herpes, however you should get treated as fast as possible if you believe you have it.
There are various medications available to help treat esophagitis caused by the herpes virus.
The following antibiotics can help:
If you believe you are experiencing a herpes outbreak, contact your doctor or schedule an online doctor visit with PlushCare to get tested for herpes, confirm your diagnoses and start proper treatment.
Read More About Herpes in Throat
